The Inspector General, IGP Ibrahim Idris, has condemned the closure
of the Police Division in the National Assembly by the Senate.

The IGP said the Senate alleged closure of the police division was “illegal.”

The Senate and the IGP have been engaged in a face-off.

The IG has been accused of removing the Officer-in-Charge of the
Division without recourse to the leadership of the National Assembly.

These, it is believed, led to the closure of the Police Division in the National Assembly on September 12, 2017.

In a letter dated September 19, 2017, entitled, “Re: Sealing and
closure of Nigeria Police National Assembly Division,” Idris said the
action was tantamount to a criminal act.

The letter was personally signed by the IG and addressed to some high-ranking persons at the National Assembly.

It reads, “I am constrained to bring to the attention of the
Chairman, National Assembly and President of the Senate, the sealing and
closure of the Nigeria Police National Assembly Division since
September 12, 2017 till date (seven days now).

“Preliminary inquiries initiated upon getting this report revealed
that one Ibrahim Ndako – Sargent-At-Arms of the National Assembly and
personnel on the said date evicted the duly posted Divisional Police
Officer and staff from the police station in full glare reportedly on
the instruction(s) of one M.A. Omolori – Clerk of the National Assembly
and sealed the office(s).

“Pursuant to this, on September 17, 2017, I directed the Commissioner
of Police, FCT Command in whose jurisdiction the National Assembly is
domiciled to meet with the said M.A. Omolori – Clerk of the National
Assembly and ascertain the circumstances that led to what is manifestly
and unlawful action. Regrettably, this entreaty was bluntly rebuffed.

“No reason(s) prior to and after the closure has been formally
conveyed to any formation of the Nigeria Police or to the Office of the
Inspector General of Police in this regard even as at the time of this
correspondence…

“Furthermore, it is also necessary to indicate that this action of
evicting public servant in the course of performing their lawful duties
and sealing an office domiciled in a public building complex devoid of
an express order from competent court is tantamount to a criminal act
punishable under the Criminal Code and Panel Code of Laws of the Federal
Republic of Nigeria.

“The implications of this action in the light of current agitations
now emanating from different parts of the country negatively impact
directly on the security of the National Assembly Complex, the numerous
members and staff of parliament domiciled therein as well as members of
the general public; an outcome, which may no doubt escalate to a serious
challenge to National Security.

“Consequently, I have initiated a formal investigation to determine
the background and circumstances leading to this unfortunate and
unprecedented development; the outcome of which will be conveyed to your
distinguished office for information accordingly.

“While appreciating your tremendous support towards the successes of
the Nigeria Police Force, accept as always the assurances of my highest
regards, please.”